Local Philadelphia Furniture Shopping at the Dump, and Easy Tips to Make the Best of a Shopping Trip for your Home
As an interior designer, I’m always looking for a great place to score some goods for the home. Whether that’s a big box, small box, flea market, a quaint shop in the neighborhood or, of course, online. I love looking around and seeing what kind of treasures I can find to create that unique and curated mix in a home that makes it look so lived in and effortlessly put together.
And I also like getting out of the office from time to time, away from the computer to do it IRL. Sometimes a little field trip is in order to find those great local sources for furnishings and décor.
So, when I was recently approached by The Dump to come for a visit and do a blog post I was intrigued (yay field trip) but at the same time a tad hesitant.
I really didn’t know much about The Dump and the only real experience I had was through their advertising. If you're local to Philly (or have a location near your) you’ve likely heard the high energy radio ads or seen the flashy TV commercials promising big discounts on quality items going fast (I especially remember the ads highlighting sales for authentic and high end Persian rugs at rock bottom prices). These ads have always piqued my interest, because who doesn’t love a good rug, but I had never been there to check it out and I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect.
Walking through The Dump, I see something for everyone. I spy a very cool modern farmhouse table in the foreground here and that tall black triangular lamp’s not to shabby either.
I have to say, however, when I walked in I was pleasantly surprised by the array of items they had on the floor. First thing I noticed was the place was HUGE, and Warehouse-y feeling, but there were some nicely done vignettes around with some really great brands - like Jungalow, Resource Decor and Thomas Bina just to name a few. There is something for everyone here, and there were gems hiding within the many rows of sofas, tables and chairs and the prices really can’t be beat.
This reclaimed wood pedestal bed situation is so perfect for a modern cabin.
Love this indigo chaise and the subtle contrast of the fabric on the cushion.
In the first 5 minutes I spotted a Thomas Bina coffee table that I have literally been internet stalking like a crazy person for a couple of years, but hadn’t pulled the trigger. I was also considering it for a client project but the size wasn’t quite right, and honestly I have always just wanted to adopt it and have it come live with me. So, you know when I saw that it was priced at $599 down from $1258 retail, I brought this new addition home to stay.
When I say they have something for everyone I’m not really exaggerating. For example…recliners and reclining sofas, aren’t my jam per-se. But it’s one of those places that will have something to fit every taste - including the comfort obsessed.
The reason The Dump is a great source for unique quality pieces at excellent prices, is because of their business model. They sources their inventory by going to design shows and markets and scoops up entire showrooms, samples and closeouts to sell at a big discount. The inventory is from quality manufacturers and is always changing. They are only open 3 days a week, Friday, Saturday and Sunday to keep overhead low, and they are constantly refreshing inventory with new items weekly.
So, let’s take a little photo tour of my favorites from my trip…
This box cushion sectional in a muted rust velvet was giving me major heart eyes. I sooo wish I had a project to put this pretty number. And the color in person was to die for.
The rug options are no joke. Such beautiful hand knotted options. I like-y this one…
The subtle edge detail on this mid-century inspired table is really delicate and pretty and brings such interest to the simple silhouette.
This credenza has such a cool modern feel, and the flip up handles are really interesting detail.
A pretty white sofa is perfect for almost any space, and this one has a great relaxed modern vibe. It would look great with the shagreen table below.
I’m a sucker for a cool chair. And this Thomas Bina chair did not disappoint with the dark striped fabric with the light toned wood and metal base, it would feel perfectly at home in a modern beach house.
I love some shagreen. This side table is the perfect dose with a bit of an industrial flair. And that rug it’s sitting on is purrdy too.
Shopping at The Dump is a bit different from your typical retail scenario, and is a true treasure hunt experience. If you like the thrill of the hunt, I have outlined some solid tips on how to shop at The Dump or at and any other warehouse/flea market with a rotating one-of-a kind inventory.
Top Tips for Shopping at Warehouse Sales or Flea Markets with Rotating Inventory
Go with an open mind: You will likely see a lot of stuff that you’re not that into, but then you may see something that is just perfect that you would have never considered. This is part of the fun of shopping in this type of environment. You really never know what you’re going to find… and sometimes the perfect piece finds you.
Make a list: (and don’t forget it at home like I do). Organize the list of things you’re shopping for and bring measurements of your space! It also isn’t a bad idea to include those items that are more wish list items - things that you would buy if the circumstance presents itself but aren’t in desperate need of right now.
Go often: If you don’t find something, wait a bit and go again. With rotating inventory, you never know what you will find the next time you go.
Make a decision: Conversely, if you find something you like, pull the trigger. I know decisions are hard. But, things shuffle in and out and if you see something you like, chances are someone else likes it too. There is a good chance it could be scooped up by the time you make up your mind and go back to get it. And let’s face it… that’s just sad.
Know when to say no: don’t fall in the “it’s such a good deal I should just get it even though I forgot my measurements and I don’t know if it’s quite right” trap. No good can come of making hasty decisions because the lure of a sale and then you get it home and it doesn’t fit or it’s just not right. Then it sits in your attic collecting dust (I may be guilty of this from time to time… I’m working on it). If you see something that’s sorta cool but you have to say no, don’t be sad, and refer back to step 3.
I hope this was a fun little tour of one of our local Philadelphia furniture stores. I know I will definitely be going back to The Dump to check out what they have in store. And if you’re ready to go hunting for your next treasure, this weekend is the perfect time as they have extended Veterans Day hours.
Friday 9a-9p
Saturday 10a-9p
Sunday 11a-7p
Veterans Day 9a-9p
Oh, and before I sign off, I wanted to show you guys how my serendipitous coffee table purchase turned out in it’s new home. I’m just as into it as I was when I was internet stalking it… this guy will not be collecting dust in the attic!
If you are in the market for a new piece of furniture or a have a decorating project and don’t know where to start, I would love to hear from you! Reach out or you learn more about Sharp + Grey’s Design Services.
This post was sponsored by The Dump. All opinions are my own.